African Artists Shine with Multiple Nominations at 2024 MTV EMAs

African music talents are making waves on the global stage as they secure significant nominations for the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs), scheduled to take place on November 10 at the Co-op Live Arena in Manchester, United Kingdom. Leading the African contingent is South African megastar Tyla, who has received four nominations, making her the most nominated African artist at this year’s awards.

At just 22 years old, Tyla has been nominated in the categories of Best New Artist, Best R&B, Best African Act, and Best Afrobeats. Her success in garnering these nominations highlights her rising influence in the global music scene, following her recent accolade as the youngest South African Grammy winner and her impressive wins at international music awards.

In the Best African Act category, Tyla will face competition from fellow South Africans TitoM & Yuppe, known for their hit “Tshwala Bam,” as well as DBN Gogo, a popular amapiano music producer and DJ from Durban. Nigerian artist Ayra Starr, who also tied with Tyla in receiving four nominations, and Tanzanian star Diamond Platnumz are also in contention for this award.

Monde Twala, senior vice-president and general manager of Paramount Africa and head of BET International, commented on the nominations, saying, “The nominations reflect the remarkable talent and diversity of Africa’s music scene, with Afrobeats and other genres making a powerful impact worldwide. Artists like Ayra Starr, Tyla, Burna Boy, and Tems are true ambassadors of African excellence.”

Beyond her EMA nominations, Tyla recently released a deluxe version of her self-titled album, which includes collaborations with artists such as Skillibeng, Gunna, and Travis Scott. This follows her successful year where she bagged awards at the BET Awards and the MTV Video Music Awards.

The MTV EMAs, marking their 30th anniversary, return to the UK after seven years, promising a show filled with iconic performances. Taylor Swift leads the overall nomination count with seven, while artists such as Sabrina Carpenter, Billie Eilish, and Ariana Grande each have five nominations.

The awards will be broadcast live on MTV in South Africa on November 10 at 11 p.m. local time on DStv channel 322 and GOtv channel 72. The event promises to celebrate music’s biggest global celebration amid Manchester’s vibrant creative heritage.